South Michigan News

Today, Congressman Tim Walberg hosted a ceremony to honor Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Van Havel with the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor award from the U.S. Air Force. The event took place in recognition of Lt. Col. Van Havel's heroic actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Alongside this award, Congressman Walberg presented him with a congressional proclamation, expressing gratitude for his courageous service.

"I was honored to host this ceremony and present Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Van Havel with a congressional proclamation to recognize him for his courage, devotion, and commitment to service," said Rep. Walberg. "Lt. Col. Van Havel served our nation with unwavering resolve, helping to defend the freedoms we all hold so dear. Today, as a grateful nation, we pause to thank him for his heroic actions and for showing us what it means to put others before self."

Lt. Col. Van Havel played a crucial role as a wingman in a two-ship formation on a Close Air Support mission during the invasion of Iraq, supporting the 1st Brigade of the 3rd Infantry Division's advance toward Karbala. During this mission, he and his flight lead were tasked with providing overwatch for the Quick Reaction Force when they encountered radar-guided missile fire.

Demonstrating exceptional skill and bravery, Lt. Col. Van Havel visually identified missile launches and guided his flight lead through maneuvers to evade them using countermeasures successfully. He then volunteered to re-enter enemy range without additional support assets or artillery to destroy an SA-2 missile site, ensuring that the Quick Reaction Force team could complete their mission unharmed.